Researchers have proved that there are two different species of the polyphagous shot hole borer in Southern California, but the two types have similar characteristics.
The polyphagous shot hole borer showed up in California in 2008 and is a major concern for the avocado industry as it has been found in groves in Southern California. Cooperative Extension San Luis Obispo County Director Mary Bianchi says research has defined two separate species of the beetle. Bianchi said those characteristics seem to also be the same with the concerning host range for the pest.